Flat-front kitchen cabinets complement a wide range of decorative styles. They are the simplest type of cabinet to update because the flat front is like a blank canvas. Simply painting them a different color and adding new hardware can drastically change the look of flat-front kitchen cabinets. If you also add architectural elements, such as trim or wood decals, the transformation can be astounding.

1

Remove the doors from the cabinets by removing the hinges with a screwdriver. Remove the knobs or handles from the door and cabinet fronts.

2

Clean the doors, drawer fronts and cabinet fronts with denatured alcohol. Wet a sponge with denatured alcohol and wipe it over the cabinets to remove grease, dirt and grime. Pay attention to the small nooks and crannies where dirt can collect.

3

Sand the cabinet fronts, drawer fronts and door fronts lightly, with sandpaper or an oscillating tool with a sanding accessory, to roughen them up and give the new, updated finish something to adhere to.

4

Add new architectural elements, if desired, such as molding or carved wood decals that are made to be attached to flat surfaces such as cabinet fronts. Cut molding pieces to size and miter the corners using a handheld cutting tool and miter guide attachment. Use wood glue and finish nails to affix the molding pieces in place, and use wood putty or caulk to fill any crevices for a seamless look.

5

Paint or glaze the cabinet doors, drawer fronts and cabinet fronts. If you're painting a lighter color over dark wood or paint, apply a primer coat before applying the new, updated color. Let the primer dry following label directions, then apply two to three coats of the new color of paint or glaze.

6

Install new, updated hinges, handles and drawer pulls to finish the new look.

7

Rehang the doors by reattaching the hinges, and reinstall the cabinet drawers.

Things You Will Need

Screwdriver or electric screwdriver

Denatured alcohol

Sponge

Handheld oscillating tool with sanding accessory

Fine-grit sandpaper

Wood molding and/or wood decals

Handheld cutting tool

Miter guide attachment

Finish nails

Wood glue

Wood putty or caulk

Primer

Paint or glaze

Paintbrush or small roller

Cabinet hardware

Safety goggles

Dusk mask

Tip

Lay the pieces out on sawhorses to make it easier to work on them.

Warning

Wear safety goggles and a dusk mask when sanding to avoid breathing dust and fumes.

About the Author

Sharon Sweeny has a college degree in general studies and worked as an administrative and legal assistant for 20 years before becoming a professional writer in 2008. She specializes in writing about home improvement, self-sufficient lifestyles and gardening.